New lessons introduced to enhance cultural understanding in UP

Prayagraj: A new lesson called 'Varanasi ki Yatra' (Journey of Varanasi) will be added to the Hindi textbook for third-grade students in Uttar Pradesh's primary schools starting from the 2025-26 academic session. This change aims to enhance students' cultural understanding. The new lesson will replace an old story called 'Bolne Wali Maand', which did not focus on themes of nationalism. The 'Varanasi ki Yatra' lesson will promote pride in heritage and showcase important places in Varanasi, like the Kashi Vishwanath temple and Banaras Hindu University. It will also highlight local cuisine and railway manufacturing. Naval Kishore, the Principal of the State Education Institute, mentioned that the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) approved the changes to better reflect the local context. Additionally, a new poem titled 'Bharat hai mera ghar' will replace 'Hum anek lekin ek'. This poem aims to teach children about India's unity using names of cities and vivid pictures. Folk songs from local dialects like Braj, Awadhi, Bhojpuri, and Bundeli have also been added to preserve UP's cultural heritage. Lastly, the story 'Gummakad (wandering) Tarak' will take the place of 'Birbal's Khichdi' to teach students about cooperation and friendship. These updates aim to provide a richer educational experience for children in Uttar Pradesh.